50 Plasma TV
Top Recommended 50 Inch Plasma TVs for 2009
Below are our recommended plasma models in the 50" size for 2009. These recommendations are based upon price, value, quality and feature set considerations and the accompanying editors choice designations may be assigned based on one or more of these aspects.
What size TV is right for you? See our HDTV Screen Size Calculator
Panasonic TC-P50G10 check prices See ReviewEditor's Choice: Quality
50" Plasma TV 1080p
The G10 series contains many of the top end features that will make this line one of the higher priced plasmas on the market. The line enters the market in March of 2009, making it the first new model from Panasonic to reach the market that year. New features include a 600Hz Sub-field Drive for fast processing video signals. It has the new feature "Infinite Black" that Panasonic is touting as it's new black level.
Of course there is 1080p resolution along with SD Memory card slots which allow playback from video recorders and digital camera's that are compatible with Viera Cast , Panasonic's proprietary menu system. While we give no credence to manufacturer contrast ratios, Panasonic boasts an improved native contrast on this series to 40,000:1. All this really means is that the contrast will be better than previous contrasts but we'll have to wait to review the product to report how much. After calibration to D6500 contrast figures will likely be around 400 to 500:1.
Pioneer PDP-5020HD check prices Editor's Choice: Quality
50" Plasma Television 1080p
The new Pioneer Kuro Plasma technology has been focused on presentation of black levels, frankly to catch up with dominant black level producer Panasonic. The blacks are rich and deep and almost the color of the black bezel. Pioneer now claims the deepest blacks, with which claim we concur. It’s hard to imagine that television picture quality can get much better than this. In 1080i and 1080p the Pioneer 5020FD performed almost flawlessly with stunning clarity, deep rich blacks, vibrant but not oversaturated colors. A post calibrated picture will seem at first softer than normal but you the viewer will enjoy the picture much more over time (and you wont get a headache from all the false edge enhancement). Some features:
- High-Definition 1080p Resolution (1920 x 1080p)
- 50" Diagonal Class / 16:9 Wide-Screen Aspect Ratio (49.85" Screen)
- New Deeper Intense Blacks for Unmatched Contrast (5x Previous Generation)
- New Thinner Cosmetic Design
- New Home Media Gallery
- Home Network Connectivity
- 4 Independent HDMI® 1.3 Inputs
- Anti-Reflective Filter
- Subwoofer Output
Samsung PN50B850 check prices
50" Plasma TV
New for 2009 are Samsung's B850 plasmas. These are the top of line for Samsung in '09 and feature an ultra-thin, one inch deep bezel and the internet connectivity that's showing up in more and more HDTVs. Rather than posting an outrageous contrast ratio, Samsung is saying the PN50B850 will have "mega dynamic contrast" and it remains to be seen just how "mega" it really is.
Some other feature of the PN50B850 are 1080p resolution, 24p film playback, built in ethernet (it's also wifi capable but you'll need to purchase additional hardware) and Samsung's Wide Color Enhancer Pro technology. It also features a new anti-glare screen than Samsung is calling Ultra FilterBright Plus. For the energy conscious the TV will meet the EnergyStar 3.0 specification.
LG 50PS60 check prices Editor's Choice: Value
50" Plasma TV 1080p
The 50PS60 is a full HD 1080p plasma which features a new design that makes the appearance of the plasma more streamlined. The single-layer design is composed of 1 seamless pane of glass covering the front of the plasma panel. There are a variety of frame colors that may be selected to match home décor.
In addition THX calibration certification and THX Cinema Sound mode are also included on this model. As mentioned before, THX can drive the price of TVs up considerably.
Samsung PN50B550 check prices See Review Editor's Choice: Value
50" Plasma TV
Plasma is known for it's outstanding picture quality, unfortunately it is also known for it's high power usage. Samsung is claiming the new PN50B550 will use 50% less power than previous models while retaining the picture quality that plasma is known for. The B550 series plasmas are slim at only about an inch thick and boast Energy Star 3.0 compliance.
For movie night the B550 will display your films at a natural 24p and 600Hz processing should mean smooth motion all the time. We are looking forward to reviewing the PN50B550.
LG 50PQ30 check prices Editor's Choice: Price
50" Plasma TV 1080p
On the value end of LG's plasma offerings for 2009 is the 50PQ30 series. These TVs are always great sellers and LG does a good job of competing on the value end with Samsung and Panasonic. One feature that I really like in this plasma model is the Auto Volume Leveler II which helps to reduce large swings in volume output during commercials and when changing channels.
There is also SimpLink connectivity to compatible digital cameras and camcorders. The plasma has 3 HDMI inputs and contains LG's Deep color V.1.3 technology which can add depth and dimension to movies. Lastly, the resolution of 720p (1366 X 768) may seem like yesterdays HD resolution, but since you will be viewing 95% or more of your HD content in either 1080i or 720p these 720p plasmas are the best bang for the buck as the price is always considerably less
Samsung PN50B650 check prices
50" Plasma TV
Samsung's new PN50B650 plasma flat panel HDTV exemplifies the design and performance refinements for those with discerning tastes and a passion for innovation. Picture your favorite room filled with 50 inches of 1080p Full HD picture performance artistically accented in a new Touch of ColorTM design. Samsung's 6 Series E-Panel technology delivers improvements with our Ultra FiterBrightTM technology that further reduces glare in brighter rooms and our advanced Crystal Full HD Engine expands the picture viewing experience with less power consumption. The new Medi@2.0 connectivity package offers customizable online content via user-friendly 'widgets', networking capability via the DLNA standard, and playback of your camera and camcorder via USB 2.0. Add 4 advanced HDMI inputs that feature Samsung's Anynet+ (CEC standard) technology making system control of compatible A/V devices like a Blu-ray player or HTIB system a one-touch operation. Experience Full 1080p performance and advanced connectivity on Samsung's new B650 series plasma HDTVs that are designed to meet higher pride of ownership expectations and lower the cost of ownership
Popular Articles |
    |
